When Should Immigrant Children Start School in Australia?

/in /by

Deciding when and where your child should start their education is an important consideration for immigrant families moving to Australia. It’s essential for immigrant parents to understand that while schooling for young children is not compulsory, knowing the different stages and requirements helps in making informed decisions. School is compulsory from the age of 6 until 17 in most states and territories, with provisions for alternative study or work arrangements in the senior secondary years. Here, we’ll outline the various stages of schooling, from pre-school to secondary school, highlighting when education is mandatory and what parents should be aware of.

Pre-School

Duration: 1 year

Age: 3-4 years old

  • Not compulsory
  • Offered by public and non-government schools.
  • Pre-school is primarily for early childhood education and is optional in Australia.

Preparatory Year

Duration: 1 year

Age: 4-6 years old

  • Not compulsory in some states
  • Known by various names such as Kindergarten, Transition, Reception, or Primary, depending on the State or Territory.
  • Linked to the primary school curriculum and focuses on the overall development of the students.
  • The preparatory year, also known as “Prep,” serves as a bridge between early childhood education and primary school, although its requirement varies by location.

Primary School

Duration: 6-7 years

Age: 5-12 years old

 

Compulsory for all students.

  • No entrance examination for public primary schools.
  • Co-educational and single-sex schools available.
  • Students learn through group and individual activities.
  • Generally, one teacher per class for most subjects, with specialist teachers for subjects like Art.
  • No standardized exam or formal certificate upon completion.
  • Primary school is mandatory for all children and serves as the foundation for their educational journey.

 

Secondary School

Duration: 5-6 years

Age: 12-18 years old

To enter secondary school, international students must provide their academic records and demonstrate English proficiency.

General Information:

  • Secondary education is more independent and student-guided than primary school.
  • Co-educational and single-sex schools are available.
  • Students have different teachers for most subjects and move between rooms according to their timetable.
  • Specialized classrooms for subjects like art, music, and science are common.

Junior High School (Years 7-10):

  • Compulsory courses include English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science.
  • After Year 10, students can choose to continue to senior high school, start a vocational program, or enter the workforce. Most opt to continue to Year 11.
  • In some States, a formal certification is awarded upon completing Year 10.

Senior High School (Years 11-12):

  • Students have a wider range of elective courses, including Computing, Art, and Drama.
  • They focus on subjects they excel in or that align with their career or educational goals.
  • Year 12 students can study for a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, recognized by Australian and many international universities for further study.

Compulsory Education Requirements

Schooling is compulsory from the age of 6 until 17 in most states and territories, with provisions for alternative study or work arrangements in the senior secondary years. Young people are required to participate in schooling (or an approved equivalent) to at least Year 10 across all states. After Year 10, depending on jurisdictional requirements, students are required to undertake full-time education, training, or employment (or a combination of these activities) until they turn 17 (most states and territories), or 18 (Western Australia and Tasmania), or complete an approved learning program, whichever comes first.

Understanding the stages and requirements of the Australian education system helps immigrant families make informed decisions about their children’s schooling. Whether deciding to enroll in pre-school or preparing for secondary education, knowing what to expect at each level ensures a smoother transition and successful academic journey for international students.

For more information or assistance with educational services, please feel free to contact us